We Tried It: Pumped in Pumps Stiletto Workout Class

Although I've had the chance to try out lots of new fitness classes, when I was invited to take a stiletto fitness class with Skinnygirl Daily creator Bethenny Frankel, I was a little apprehensive. As a magazine editor living in New York, I seem to spend a lot of time running in heels—running to the office, running to an event, running after someone famous—but I've never actually exercised in my stilettos. And I didn't really think I wanted to (I'm nothing if not one of the clumsiest people I've ever met).

But after running through every excuse I could think of to decline the class (Hey, I injured my ankle...last February! I'm in heels all day...so another 30 minutes won't kill me), I decided to give it a shot, packed one of my favorite and sturdiest pairs of pumps, and showed up to Pearl Studios in midtown Manhattan where Frankel and trainer Nicole Damaris, creator of the NDG Fit Stiletto Workout, were ready and waiting (in red-hot Manolo Blahniks, no less!).

Now, to be fair, I wasn't the only skeptical one: "I thought this would be a gimmick and that it would annoy me," Frankel says. "But I was surprised. This was a really good workout."

She's right. Although the class mostly consisted of seemingly basic moves such as squats, lunges, and high kicks, they're exponentially harder when you're trying to balance in heels. Plus the heels force you into a constant calf raise, which works your legs, Damaris explained. In order to keep from toppling over, I really had to focus on my breath, my posture, and keeping my core strong and centered. By the time we finished, my abs were burning, my butt was on fire, my feet hurt, and everyone in the class was sweating.

"I felt a little slutty...in a good way!" Frankel says. "I like how this made me feel sexy and confident."

After the workout, we all sipped on some smoothies from the new Skinnygirl On the Go collection (which includes cleanses, bars, and vitamin power packets) and gathered around for a short conversation with Frankel, who talked about healthy eating, fitness, and family.

I have to admit, I don't know if I'd take the class again (hobbling to the subway is not a good look on me), but it was a surprisingly productive workout, and it took less than an hour—always a plus in my book. What do you think? Would you be willing to sweat it out in high heels? Let us know in the comments below!